Broken Limb's MacBeth
Thu, 13 July 2000, 09:41 amWalter Plinge23 posts in thread
Broken Limb's MacBeth
Thu, 13 July 2000, 09:41 amFirstly a few qualifying remarks. Most of you seem entirely ready to dismiss me on the basis that I am "uninformed" or "ignorant". Never at any time did I say "I know everything about theatre, therefore my opinion is gospel". What I have to say can also very easily be contradicted and of course it is up to the individual as to who he/she believes. To this end, yes I could refute others' claims, but I see no end in an argument where both sides are diametrically opposed. Just because (supposedly) I didn't "understand" the Brecthian style of Bumpy Angels I must be stupid, mean and a "nutmuncher". I say Bumpy Angels was a poor and badly excuted example of brecht, rather ragged and lacking any power in its alienation affects, cheapening any dramatic power of the show. As to Higgin's speaking most of is songs, of course I know they are very "spoken" in style and this is essential to the character, but that does not mean you speak almost every word of every song - it is a musical and poeple come to hear the songs. Anyway, I could go on at length trying to defend every challenge to my opinion, but in the end you all want to believe that what I have to say has no value.
In any case I shall sally forth and review Broken Limb's Macbeth, which I had the pleasure of seeing last night. Firsty, I love the venue of Rechabites Hall (having performed there), it is a dynamic space which has seen many interesting uses. The design was fabulous. Simple and highly effective, I loved the use of both coloured and dim light on the screens and stage. It complemented the modern effeciency of the interpretation (Macbeth in the business world, suits, briefcases etc) and was quite striking at times most notably in the witches scenes (with excellent dancing). Altogether, the opening of the show was fresh and engaging. The actors kept a good pace with the dialogue and in the 3 and half hours I was not once aware of time dragging, or it being too long - although there were a few overly "dramtic" pauses, just long enough to make you think there had been a mistake. The second half was by far the best, immersive and energetic especially towards the end- here I make special mention of the doctor scene which I found highly compelling. Costumes were simple and evocative, keeping a distance between the modern interpretation and the medieval/elizabethan dialogue. Where I had a problem with direction/interpretation was that becuase the play was "modernised"/"streamlined" I felt there was a lack of energy. Most dialogue was given quite casually and the audience lost a few speeches to mumbling and/or speaking too fast. A few sections were also quite difficult to hear, being whispered at the corner of the stage, so overall I would suggest working on projection and energy. The use of music was well intergrated and leant a great deal to the production.
Overall a well though-out interpretation that gives something new to the play. Great design was slightly marred by underenergised/underspoken performances, which while consistent with the mood and style of the production lost contact with the audience a few times and just turned into "words". A good show. =)
SS
In any case I shall sally forth and review Broken Limb's Macbeth, which I had the pleasure of seeing last night. Firsty, I love the venue of Rechabites Hall (having performed there), it is a dynamic space which has seen many interesting uses. The design was fabulous. Simple and highly effective, I loved the use of both coloured and dim light on the screens and stage. It complemented the modern effeciency of the interpretation (Macbeth in the business world, suits, briefcases etc) and was quite striking at times most notably in the witches scenes (with excellent dancing). Altogether, the opening of the show was fresh and engaging. The actors kept a good pace with the dialogue and in the 3 and half hours I was not once aware of time dragging, or it being too long - although there were a few overly "dramtic" pauses, just long enough to make you think there had been a mistake. The second half was by far the best, immersive and energetic especially towards the end- here I make special mention of the doctor scene which I found highly compelling. Costumes were simple and evocative, keeping a distance between the modern interpretation and the medieval/elizabethan dialogue. Where I had a problem with direction/interpretation was that becuase the play was "modernised"/"streamlined" I felt there was a lack of energy. Most dialogue was given quite casually and the audience lost a few speeches to mumbling and/or speaking too fast. A few sections were also quite difficult to hear, being whispered at the corner of the stage, so overall I would suggest working on projection and energy. The use of music was well intergrated and leant a great deal to the production.
Overall a well though-out interpretation that gives something new to the play. Great design was slightly marred by underenergised/underspoken performances, which while consistent with the mood and style of the production lost contact with the audience a few times and just turned into "words". A good show. =)
SS
Walter PlingeThu, 13 July 2000, 09:41 am
Firstly a few qualifying remarks. Most of you seem entirely ready to dismiss me on the basis that I am "uninformed" or "ignorant". Never at any time did I say "I know everything about theatre, therefore my opinion is gospel". What I have to say can also very easily be contradicted and of course it is up to the individual as to who he/she believes. To this end, yes I could refute others' claims, but I see no end in an argument where both sides are diametrically opposed. Just because (supposedly) I didn't "understand" the Brecthian style of Bumpy Angels I must be stupid, mean and a "nutmuncher". I say Bumpy Angels was a poor and badly excuted example of brecht, rather ragged and lacking any power in its alienation affects, cheapening any dramatic power of the show. As to Higgin's speaking most of is songs, of course I know they are very "spoken" in style and this is essential to the character, but that does not mean you speak almost every word of every song - it is a musical and poeple come to hear the songs. Anyway, I could go on at length trying to defend every challenge to my opinion, but in the end you all want to believe that what I have to say has no value.
In any case I shall sally forth and review Broken Limb's Macbeth, which I had the pleasure of seeing last night. Firsty, I love the venue of Rechabites Hall (having performed there), it is a dynamic space which has seen many interesting uses. The design was fabulous. Simple and highly effective, I loved the use of both coloured and dim light on the screens and stage. It complemented the modern effeciency of the interpretation (Macbeth in the business world, suits, briefcases etc) and was quite striking at times most notably in the witches scenes (with excellent dancing). Altogether, the opening of the show was fresh and engaging. The actors kept a good pace with the dialogue and in the 3 and half hours I was not once aware of time dragging, or it being too long - although there were a few overly "dramtic" pauses, just long enough to make you think there had been a mistake. The second half was by far the best, immersive and energetic especially towards the end- here I make special mention of the doctor scene which I found highly compelling. Costumes were simple and evocative, keeping a distance between the modern interpretation and the medieval/elizabethan dialogue. Where I had a problem with direction/interpretation was that becuase the play was "modernised"/"streamlined" I felt there was a lack of energy. Most dialogue was given quite casually and the audience lost a few speeches to mumbling and/or speaking too fast. A few sections were also quite difficult to hear, being whispered at the corner of the stage, so overall I would suggest working on projection and energy. The use of music was well intergrated and leant a great deal to the production.
Overall a well though-out interpretation that gives something new to the play. Great design was slightly marred by underenergised/underspoken performances, which while consistent with the mood and style of the production lost contact with the audience a few times and just turned into "words". A good show. =)
SS
In any case I shall sally forth and review Broken Limb's Macbeth, which I had the pleasure of seeing last night. Firsty, I love the venue of Rechabites Hall (having performed there), it is a dynamic space which has seen many interesting uses. The design was fabulous. Simple and highly effective, I loved the use of both coloured and dim light on the screens and stage. It complemented the modern effeciency of the interpretation (Macbeth in the business world, suits, briefcases etc) and was quite striking at times most notably in the witches scenes (with excellent dancing). Altogether, the opening of the show was fresh and engaging. The actors kept a good pace with the dialogue and in the 3 and half hours I was not once aware of time dragging, or it being too long - although there were a few overly "dramtic" pauses, just long enough to make you think there had been a mistake. The second half was by far the best, immersive and energetic especially towards the end- here I make special mention of the doctor scene which I found highly compelling. Costumes were simple and evocative, keeping a distance between the modern interpretation and the medieval/elizabethan dialogue. Where I had a problem with direction/interpretation was that becuase the play was "modernised"/"streamlined" I felt there was a lack of energy. Most dialogue was given quite casually and the audience lost a few speeches to mumbling and/or speaking too fast. A few sections were also quite difficult to hear, being whispered at the corner of the stage, so overall I would suggest working on projection and energy. The use of music was well intergrated and leant a great deal to the production.
Overall a well though-out interpretation that gives something new to the play. Great design was slightly marred by underenergised/underspoken performances, which while consistent with the mood and style of the production lost contact with the audience a few times and just turned into "words". A good show. =)
SS
Walter PlingeThu, 13 July 2000, 12:13 pm
RE: Broken Limb's MacBeth
Let me be the first to say .. thanks for the review. Not having seen the show personally ... it appears to be more balanced and thought out than your previous efforts.
A few more like this, employing 'tact' and backing up your opinions with reasoned thought ... and you might be back in some people good books !!?
Keep them coming SS
A few more like this, employing 'tact' and backing up your opinions with reasoned thought ... and you might be back in some people good books !!?
Keep them coming SS
KimberleyThu, 13 July 2000, 02:34 pm
Bumpy Angels and Brecht
Bumpy Angels is not supposed to be an example of Brechtian alienation.
Tracey brought up Brecht, merely as a recognisable example of actors breaking out of character, then reverting to character. In that way the script does have some Brectian INFLUENCES.
I am not in any way, shape or form trying to emulate Brecht.
Just for the record.
Kimberley
Tracey brought up Brecht, merely as a recognisable example of actors breaking out of character, then reverting to character. In that way the script does have some Brectian INFLUENCES.
I am not in any way, shape or form trying to emulate Brecht.
Just for the record.
Kimberley
Walter PlingeThu, 13 July 2000, 03:27 pm
RE: Broken Limb's MacBeth
I would like to thank SS for legitimising anonymity.
I think that his/her review was interesting and informative, never once aggressive or uninformed, apart from Kimberlys post.
Anyway I think that the review was a little slow and aggrieved to start, slowed down towards the middle but picked up towards the end.
All in all a pretty good review.
I would recommend reading this review.
I think that his/her review was interesting and informative, never once aggressive or uninformed, apart from Kimberlys post.
Anyway I think that the review was a little slow and aggrieved to start, slowed down towards the middle but picked up towards the end.
All in all a pretty good review.
I would recommend reading this review.
Walter PlingeThu, 13 July 2000, 04:03 pm
RE: Broken Limb's MacBeth
"Just a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down".....
SS
SS
Walter PlingeFri, 14 July 2000, 12:42 pm
RE: Broken Limb's MacBeth
gee, that sounds just like opening nights directors notes to the cast??? ~wondering~
could we have found our squirrell???? MUUUUHHHHWWWAAAAA!!!!!!!!!
could we have found our squirrell???? MUUUUHHHHWWWAAAAA!!!!!!!!!
Grant MalcolmFri, 14 July 2000, 07:06 pm
RE: Broken Limb's MacBeth
Secret Squirrel wrote:
-------------------------------
> "Just a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go
> down".....
I wonder whether SS's spoonful of sugar - or was that a sackful - should be taken with a grain of salt?
There's a marked difference in tone between the glowing praise afforded by SS to this production and the review printed in today's West Australian.
Did i say review?
Of an amateur production?
Hasn't the West got an "editorial policy" that supposedly disqualifies amateur theatre from this kind of attention?
Is this the same Robert Cook that created a stir nine months ago with a scathing crit. of Ed the Antichrist?
Cheers
Grant
-------------------------------
> "Just a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go
> down".....
I wonder whether SS's spoonful of sugar - or was that a sackful - should be taken with a grain of salt?
There's a marked difference in tone between the glowing praise afforded by SS to this production and the review printed in today's West Australian.
Did i say review?
Of an amateur production?
Hasn't the West got an "editorial policy" that supposedly disqualifies amateur theatre from this kind of attention?
Is this the same Robert Cook that created a stir nine months ago with a scathing crit. of Ed the Antichrist?
Cheers
Grant
Walter PlingeFri, 14 July 2000, 11:29 pm
RE: Broken Limb's MacBeth
Dear SS,
Did we see the same show?
Granted, MacBeth is difficult to read, produce and watch sometimes, but this time it wasn't it's complexity or lack of understanding that disappointed me. Maybe it was second night blues as I saw it only last night, but I found it to be a little ... how shall I say it ..slumber-provoking. MacBeth was a bit flat and monotone and I again grant, it is a demanding role and perhaps the lead gave more on opening night, leaving little for the performance on Thursday. Lady MacBeth, who I believe to be one of Shakes' most commanding feminine roles, was never the strength, bitch, or sympathy I see when I read the words in my head. The other roles were well done, but only Gibson Nolte stuck in my head as his performance as MacDuff was the only one to really capture my attention.
I agree that the design was effective but housed a multitude of possibilties that were not explored. Racchibites is a wonderful venue with much to offer including it's own ambience and influence. I felt, however that the dimensions of the space were not used to the greatest level. I would have liked to see more use of heights and the screens that worked wonderfully as the spirits MacBeth sees when confronting the Witches.
I'm going to side with you, SS, on one thing and say that I am, by no means, an authority on Shakespeare, MacBeth or performance and production, so you can take or leave this review without or without that grain of salt or sugar or what ever, and I certainly don't mean to upset or offend any one, as I have mates involved in the show. I mean, I went to see a friend pole dance behind one of those screens, these are just my observations and feelings about a play and production I still think every theatre lover should see and know. If you're thinking of seeing it still do so and enjoy, stick with it as it is worth the time and effort. Write back if you see it later ion the season and feel differently.
Did we see the same show?
Granted, MacBeth is difficult to read, produce and watch sometimes, but this time it wasn't it's complexity or lack of understanding that disappointed me. Maybe it was second night blues as I saw it only last night, but I found it to be a little ... how shall I say it ..slumber-provoking. MacBeth was a bit flat and monotone and I again grant, it is a demanding role and perhaps the lead gave more on opening night, leaving little for the performance on Thursday. Lady MacBeth, who I believe to be one of Shakes' most commanding feminine roles, was never the strength, bitch, or sympathy I see when I read the words in my head. The other roles were well done, but only Gibson Nolte stuck in my head as his performance as MacDuff was the only one to really capture my attention.
I agree that the design was effective but housed a multitude of possibilties that were not explored. Racchibites is a wonderful venue with much to offer including it's own ambience and influence. I felt, however that the dimensions of the space were not used to the greatest level. I would have liked to see more use of heights and the screens that worked wonderfully as the spirits MacBeth sees when confronting the Witches.
I'm going to side with you, SS, on one thing and say that I am, by no means, an authority on Shakespeare, MacBeth or performance and production, so you can take or leave this review without or without that grain of salt or sugar or what ever, and I certainly don't mean to upset or offend any one, as I have mates involved in the show. I mean, I went to see a friend pole dance behind one of those screens, these are just my observations and feelings about a play and production I still think every theatre lover should see and know. If you're thinking of seeing it still do so and enjoy, stick with it as it is worth the time and effort. Write back if you see it later ion the season and feel differently.
Walter PlingeSat, 15 July 2000, 12:26 pm
RE: Broken Limb's MacBeth
I agree with your comments and with most of those in the published "review" in the West (btw why have they reviewed an amatuer show?? hrm) but was trying to take a less confrontational line with my "review" this time. Just find it strange to note that both you and the West reviewer comment on Gibson's noteworthy performance, whereas I found him to be overacting and completely at odds with the tone of the show...interesting! (opinion wise, I'm not saying that my impressions are right, just noting the discrepancy)
SS
SS
Walter PlingeSat, 15 July 2000, 03:07 pm
RE: Broken Limb's MacBeth
It is always a challenge to bring shakespeare into the modern era and this production of Macbeth made a valiant attempt to do so.
The concept of dark suited, mobile phone carrying businessmen promesed much but fell short on delivery. I found it curious that the theme was lost in the final moments of the play, when Macbeth comes out in a kilt for a sword fight with Macduff. What happened to the theme? In this high flying corperate Macbeth could we not have had the final showdown stabbing each other with designer fountain pens.
If shakespeare is going to work, the actors need to learn to articulate properly. So much of the dialog was missed or hard to hear secourse of the tendency for the majority of actors to speak with clenched jaws.
The sound was effective but at times it overpowered the actors. The lighting design was also very effective and contributed to the mood of the auditorium.
Walter PlingeSat, 15 July 2000, 03:07 pm
RE: Broken Limb's MacBeth
It is always a challenge to bring shakespeare into the modern era and this production of Macbeth made a valiant attempt to do so.
The concept of dark suited, mobile phone carrying businessmen promesed much but fell short on delivery. I found it curious that the theme was lost in the final moments of the play, when Macbeth comes out in a kilt for a sword fight with Macduff. What happened to the theme? In this high flying corperate Macbeth could we not have had the final showdown stabbing each other with designer fountain pens.
If shakespeare is going to work, the actors need to learn to articulate properly. So much of the dialog was missed or hard to hear secourse of the tendency for the majority of actors to speak with clenched jaws.
The sound was effective but at times it overpowered the actors. The lighting design was also very effective and contributed to the mood of the auditorium.
Walter PlingeSat, 15 July 2000, 04:19 pm
RE: Broken Limb's MacBeth
Macbeth-
SS, i usually agree with what you have to say- though i thought your review of Macbeth was far too complimentery. The show opened with an interesting idea of the corporate world. The first half of the performance set this idea up quite well- the pen and laptop replaced the sword. It would seem quite out of place that Macbeth in the final sequences took out a real sword when the other had been established.
There were many contradictions in the show- perhaps the biggest one is that of Macbeth. One of the Shakespeares' most passion fueled characters, was simply lifeless and dull.
The play seemed to be directed as realism. SHAKESPEARE CANOT BE DIRECTED AS REALISM. It has a heightened language and emotion, which has to be played fully to gain the correct sense and tone of the peice.
It seems that this Macbeth did indeed fall victim to the curse. I have seen lower secondary students handle the text with more conviction. Who was directing this show?? I think Shakespeare is a little out of thier league.
The high mark for Macbeth was set in Perth with the WAAPA version with Blair Venn, he is an example of a tightly worked believiable character. Another good production was this year at Curtin University, i thought Adam Mitchell's performance of Macbeth was also captivating. I wanted the cast and crew to view these productions and perhaps see where they went wrong!!
SS, i usually agree with what you have to say- though i thought your review of Macbeth was far too complimentery. The show opened with an interesting idea of the corporate world. The first half of the performance set this idea up quite well- the pen and laptop replaced the sword. It would seem quite out of place that Macbeth in the final sequences took out a real sword when the other had been established.
There were many contradictions in the show- perhaps the biggest one is that of Macbeth. One of the Shakespeares' most passion fueled characters, was simply lifeless and dull.
The play seemed to be directed as realism. SHAKESPEARE CANOT BE DIRECTED AS REALISM. It has a heightened language and emotion, which has to be played fully to gain the correct sense and tone of the peice.
It seems that this Macbeth did indeed fall victim to the curse. I have seen lower secondary students handle the text with more conviction. Who was directing this show?? I think Shakespeare is a little out of thier league.
The high mark for Macbeth was set in Perth with the WAAPA version with Blair Venn, he is an example of a tightly worked believiable character. Another good production was this year at Curtin University, i thought Adam Mitchell's performance of Macbeth was also captivating. I wanted the cast and crew to view these productions and perhaps see where they went wrong!!
David RydingSat, 15 July 2000, 04:28 pm
RE: Broken Limb's MacBeth
Thanks to everyone who has spent the time to comment on the show. We appreciate all your comments, criticisms and observations.
Firstly I would never review my own show under another name and any suggestion I have or I know the first reviewer is, frankly, insulting and Teri I would think you would know me better.
I stand by the work I have put on the stage and I am not ashamed to say i am still developing in my craft. I take every comment on board and would welcome further discussion with any one who would like to spend the time through my email jym12@hotmail.com. I made no decisions lightly in decisio, perfromance decisions and direction.
Robert Cook reviewing an amateur production. A quiet week in the arts? Inside contacts? Broken Limbs reputation after last years "the Boys"? Who knows? We were surprised too.
Once again thanks for your time and interest in commenting on our work. i am at the show each night so if you do coem and see it in the future and would like to chat about it, find me and lets have adrink after the show. I have no wego, just a desire to improve thouhg I know, ultimately, I'm not going to make everyone happy all the time.
Thanks
David Ryding
Director of "Macbeth
Firstly I would never review my own show under another name and any suggestion I have or I know the first reviewer is, frankly, insulting and Teri I would think you would know me better.
I stand by the work I have put on the stage and I am not ashamed to say i am still developing in my craft. I take every comment on board and would welcome further discussion with any one who would like to spend the time through my email jym12@hotmail.com. I made no decisions lightly in decisio, perfromance decisions and direction.
Robert Cook reviewing an amateur production. A quiet week in the arts? Inside contacts? Broken Limbs reputation after last years "the Boys"? Who knows? We were surprised too.
Once again thanks for your time and interest in commenting on our work. i am at the show each night so if you do coem and see it in the future and would like to chat about it, find me and lets have adrink after the show. I have no wego, just a desire to improve thouhg I know, ultimately, I'm not going to make everyone happy all the time.
Thanks
David Ryding
Director of "Macbeth
Walter PlingeSat, 15 July 2000, 04:54 pm
RE: Broken Limb's MacBeth
David..please don't be insulted...it was a cheap shot at finding the "secret squirrell" . -.....
Actually David, you were an absolute delight to work with when you directed for Scarp, most professional, enthusiastic and basically you bloody worked your sox off...for which i personally appreciated as you know.. and on top of all that you are as cute as a button...
Teri....(don't be made at me) ...Welch
Actually David, you were an absolute delight to work with when you directed for Scarp, most professional, enthusiastic and basically you bloody worked your sox off...for which i personally appreciated as you know.. and on top of all that you are as cute as a button...
Teri....(don't be made at me) ...Welch
Walter PlingeSun, 16 July 2000, 09:11 pm
RE: Broken Limb's MacBeth
Oh Dear Oh Dear, I've become so popular as to warrant impersonation!!
SS = don't accept imitations! =)
SS = don't accept imitations! =)
Walter PlingeMon, 17 July 2000, 01:30 am
RE: Broken Limb's MacBeth
Damn your right, someone is copying us !!!!
Quick find another secret identity !
Quick find another secret identity !
Walter PlingeMon, 17 July 2000, 02:33 pm
RE: Broken Limb's MacBeth
Maybe the fact that two West jounalists were in the cast had something to do with them getting a review in the paper. And they said such nice things about their own!!!
Walter PlingeMon, 17 July 2000, 03:18 pm
RE: Broken Limb's MacBeth
Copying who??
I'M the real SS =)
I'M the real SS =)
Walter PlingeWed, 19 July 2000, 01:25 pm
RE: Broken Limb's MacBeth
Geez, it's so easy to be inexcusably rude when hiding behind an oh-so-clever pseudonym, isn't it?
So tell me, Poppy, would you go up to Mike Djukic, face to face, and tell him his performance was "simply lifeless and dull"? Would you look the director in the eye and tell him he was "out of his league"? I doubt it.
How would you like it if I told you your spelling was crap, your capitalisation and punctuation embarrassing and your reviewing style laughable? I myself have seen lower secondary students who know how to spell words like "their", "believable" and "complementary".
Personally, myself, my wife, and three friends who joined us, thoroughly enjoyed the show but, you know what they say, "Poppy", "Opinions are like arseholes - everyone's got one."
Jarrod Buttery.
So tell me, Poppy, would you go up to Mike Djukic, face to face, and tell him his performance was "simply lifeless and dull"? Would you look the director in the eye and tell him he was "out of his league"? I doubt it.
How would you like it if I told you your spelling was crap, your capitalisation and punctuation embarrassing and your reviewing style laughable? I myself have seen lower secondary students who know how to spell words like "their", "believable" and "complementary".
Personally, myself, my wife, and three friends who joined us, thoroughly enjoyed the show but, you know what they say, "Poppy", "Opinions are like arseholes - everyone's got one."
Jarrod Buttery.
SidselWed, 19 July 2000, 06:59 pm
RE: Broken Limb's MacBeth
Jarrod, you missed "fuelled" and "piece" when you corrected Poppy's spelling. However, I must correct your spelling of "complementary", in this instance it should have been "complimentary" (two different meanings, refer to dictionary) so you were both wrong, sorry!
Grant MalcolmThu, 20 July 2000, 10:34 pm
RE: Broken Limb's MacBeth
+Jarrod Buttery wrote:
> Geez, it's so easy to be inexcusably rude when hiding
> behind an oh-so-clever pseudonym, isn't it?
> ...
> you know what they say, "Poppy", "Opinions are like
> arseholes - everyone's got one."
mmm... i wonder if your harsh judgement of Poppy's contribution is altogether warranted?
Your opinion of the production apparently differed from Poppy's. Fancy that, you _both_ have similarly equipped rectums! And guess what, so have i.
But, while Poppy went to some effort to discuss his/her response to this and two other recent productions they'd seen and levelled three clear, if blunt, criticisms at the show, you chose not to respond to these points and settled for a little ad hominen and a rather unilluminating "Personally, myself, my wife, and three friends who joined us, thoroughly enjoyed the show".
I look forward to getting along to see the show and making up my own mind.
I recently wrote, in part, of Perth Theatre Company's production of Miss Julie - "an act of indulgence i could well have done without", "behaviour was an absolute disgrace", "almost a complete lack of emotional engagement", "the effect was one of indulgent histrionics that served to distract from the play".
In retrospect, my response was probably more critical, direct and sustained than Poppy's - perhaps almost up there with Secret Squirrel. Did anyone leap to the defence of that production?
Cheers
Grant
> Geez, it's so easy to be inexcusably rude when hiding
> behind an oh-so-clever pseudonym, isn't it?
> ...
> you know what they say, "Poppy", "Opinions are like
> arseholes - everyone's got one."
mmm... i wonder if your harsh judgement of Poppy's contribution is altogether warranted?
Your opinion of the production apparently differed from Poppy's. Fancy that, you _both_ have similarly equipped rectums! And guess what, so have i.
But, while Poppy went to some effort to discuss his/her response to this and two other recent productions they'd seen and levelled three clear, if blunt, criticisms at the show, you chose not to respond to these points and settled for a little ad hominen and a rather unilluminating "Personally, myself, my wife, and three friends who joined us, thoroughly enjoyed the show".
I look forward to getting along to see the show and making up my own mind.
I recently wrote, in part, of Perth Theatre Company's production of Miss Julie - "an act of indulgence i could well have done without", "behaviour was an absolute disgrace", "almost a complete lack of emotional engagement", "the effect was one of indulgent histrionics that served to distract from the play".
In retrospect, my response was probably more critical, direct and sustained than Poppy's - perhaps almost up there with Secret Squirrel. Did anyone leap to the defence of that production?
Cheers
Grant
Walter PlingeFri, 21 July 2000, 06:29 pm
RE: Broken Limb's MacBeth
Hi Grant,
You asked,
" mmm... i wonder if your harsh judgement of Poppy's contribution is altogether warranted?"
Oh absolutely! But then again, that's just my rectum... err, opinion.
(Woo hoo! We finally got the word "rectum" on the page. Take that, Bell Shakespeare Company!)
Sorry, Grant, I didn't realise that an endorsement required an explanation. The true response is that I ran out of time to go into great detail. All my posts are either before work, after work, or during lunch, and I was having so much fun stooping to Poppy's level that I didn't have time to go into detail.
The cheeky response is to maintain that I don't need an explanation. If I state that I liked a play, then that's just a statement of my opinion. Opinions cannot be wrong, so no explanation is necessary. Do I need to explain that I like oranges more than I like apples? However, if I make a statement that, "The play was good (or bad)" (or that oranges are BETTER than apples) then I am obliged to give reasons.
Poppy did this, which is the mark of a good reviewer, but she did so in an insulting and cruel manner, typing things anonymously which I imagine she'd never say to a person face to face - which is the mark of a coward. I stand by my criticism.
Quickly (because I have to go to a performance) and just for the record, I liked the costumes, loved the atmosphere generated by the lights and sound, enjoyed wonderful performances from Lady M, Banquo, Duncan and MacDuff, loved the blood effects, loved the apparitions, and loved the costume changes mirroring MacBeth's descent into madness and paranoia. I disagree with someone who said that Rechabites is a great venue - it is a big, echoing box, and we did lose some of the dialogue. Music was too loud at times, and projection could have been better from some of the performers.
See? That's my opinion, and all without being insulting.
JB
You asked,
" mmm... i wonder if your harsh judgement of Poppy's contribution is altogether warranted?"
Oh absolutely! But then again, that's just my rectum... err, opinion.
(Woo hoo! We finally got the word "rectum" on the page. Take that, Bell Shakespeare Company!)
Sorry, Grant, I didn't realise that an endorsement required an explanation. The true response is that I ran out of time to go into great detail. All my posts are either before work, after work, or during lunch, and I was having so much fun stooping to Poppy's level that I didn't have time to go into detail.
The cheeky response is to maintain that I don't need an explanation. If I state that I liked a play, then that's just a statement of my opinion. Opinions cannot be wrong, so no explanation is necessary. Do I need to explain that I like oranges more than I like apples? However, if I make a statement that, "The play was good (or bad)" (or that oranges are BETTER than apples) then I am obliged to give reasons.
Poppy did this, which is the mark of a good reviewer, but she did so in an insulting and cruel manner, typing things anonymously which I imagine she'd never say to a person face to face - which is the mark of a coward. I stand by my criticism.
Quickly (because I have to go to a performance) and just for the record, I liked the costumes, loved the atmosphere generated by the lights and sound, enjoyed wonderful performances from Lady M, Banquo, Duncan and MacDuff, loved the blood effects, loved the apparitions, and loved the costume changes mirroring MacBeth's descent into madness and paranoia. I disagree with someone who said that Rechabites is a great venue - it is a big, echoing box, and we did lose some of the dialogue. Music was too loud at times, and projection could have been better from some of the performers.
See? That's my opinion, and all without being insulting.
JB
ChristinaMon, 24 July 2000, 12:43 pm
RE: Broken Limb's MacBeth
Yes indeedy, everyone is entitled to whatever opinion they may have, and yes they are entitled to express it yada yada yada. I personally think that you have all made relevant observations and I am glad that this production has inspired discussion. Which is (arguably of course because this is my rectum) what theatre is all about.
From a Rechabites point of view (I am the FOH Manager) - the Broken Limb cast and crew were an absoloute delight to have in the Hall. In fact, they treated the venue with far greater respect than many so-called professional companies and left the area cleaner than they found it. Thanks guys - you are welcome back at any time!!!!!!
I also feel that what is important here is to remember that this company of young practitioners got off their arses and actually got this show up and running without whinging and pouting for government assistance (or Healthway). For this they should be congratulated. It is so refreshing to see.
Even Robert Cook is entitled to his rectum and I don't know whether the involvement of certain journalists had anything to do with the inclusion of a review. The industry may be incestuous but publicity is publicity and you should use whatever tools are at your disposal. I do think however, that if he had little to say of a positive nature then perhaps he should have focussed on the company itself and the important role it fills for the youth of this state.
Thanks to all of you who expressed love for Rechabites Hall - we love it too!!!!
From a Rechabites point of view (I am the FOH Manager) - the Broken Limb cast and crew were an absoloute delight to have in the Hall. In fact, they treated the venue with far greater respect than many so-called professional companies and left the area cleaner than they found it. Thanks guys - you are welcome back at any time!!!!!!
I also feel that what is important here is to remember that this company of young practitioners got off their arses and actually got this show up and running without whinging and pouting for government assistance (or Healthway). For this they should be congratulated. It is so refreshing to see.
Even Robert Cook is entitled to his rectum and I don't know whether the involvement of certain journalists had anything to do with the inclusion of a review. The industry may be incestuous but publicity is publicity and you should use whatever tools are at your disposal. I do think however, that if he had little to say of a positive nature then perhaps he should have focussed on the company itself and the important role it fills for the youth of this state.
Thanks to all of you who expressed love for Rechabites Hall - we love it too!!!!